Removing door handles

[BigBlueDart]

I'm working on painting my silver interior trim pieces. That includes the door handles, but I'm having a hard times figuring out how to remove them. I've removed the assembly from the door, but getting the handle itself out is beyond me right now. Has anyone done this? Or am I just going to have to paint the handles while they are in the assembly, all masked up?

 

[Minimazda]

I have tried so many times to take those damn things out but haven't had any luck. I'm pretty sure you're going to have to mask everything up. I've been slowly painting all my silver trim as well and those are the last thing I have to tackle. =(

 

[BigBlueDart]

Well, I'm leaving the door handles for later, but I've got everything else off and am in the middle of painting them. I'll start another post on that when I'm done and can get some good pictures.

 

[BigBlueDart]

Umm... never mind on the pictures. I botched the paint job. Due to bad angles and poor lighting. Me and my impatience!

So, should I just wait for the paint to dry and then sand, or should I get it all off with lacquer thinner before trying again?

 

[Minimazda]

Lol you're worse than I am with patience! Lol you just gotta go really slow when painting them because you have to cover so many angles. I would do a lot of very thin coats and just take my time with it.
I screwed up the silver door trim when I did it and ended up having to order brand new ones...wasted more money due to impatience. I'm doing one thing at a time here and there when I can. What color are you painting everything anyways?

 

[BigBlueDart]

This color!

I sanded down the rough spots and repainted. Turned out better than I had thought. Still a bit rough in places, but at least passable. Did my fog bezels, too: